"You fell out of it. Twice."
"That was—" Kaya cut herself off, realizing she was being baited. "Fine. Move over."
She removed her boots and rolled up her pants, then waded into the creek beside Veer. The water was shockingly cold, making her feet go numb almost immediately.
The fish scattered at her approach, disturbed by the new presence.
"Stand still," Veer instructed. "Let them come back. They're curious creatures. They'll investigate you."
Kaya stood as still as she could, trying to ignore the cold, the discomfort, the way the current tugged at her legs.
Slowly, gradually, the fish began to return. They darted closer, investigating her feet, swimming between her ankles.
"Now," Veer murmured. "Fast. Don't think."
Kaya struck.
Her hands plunged into the water, closing around—
Nothing.
The fish scattered in all directions, too fast for her human reflexes.
"Again," Veer said. "You were too slow. You have to commit. Full speed, no hesitation."
---
